Seasonal variations in the upper Arctic Ocean as observed at T-3

Hydrographic data from T‐3 are analyzed to illustrate the behavior of the Arctic mixed layer. The mixed layer depth fluctuates 11 m annually and mixed layer salinity fluctuates 0.32‰. The fluctuations in total salt content are consistent with theoretical work by Maykut and are in phase with mixed layer depth, indicating changes in the mixed layer are controlled by salt flux. Deepening of the mixed layer brings 0.3 kcal cm−2 yr−1 of heat to the surface from the ocean below.